Wenger forced to rely on the boys' brigade

It is the loss of Campbell, who twisted an ankle against Charlton, that gives the 6ft 3in Swiss Under-21 international Senderos the chance to make his Premiership debut at Highbury tonight.

"He's been very unlucky with injuries since joining us," said Wenger.

"But he's an outstanding prospect, a boy with a very strong character who some have compared to Tony Adams."

Unlike Chelsea, whose financial muscle has enabled them to sign two experienced players for every position on the field, Arsenal have had to rely on Wenger's ability to spot potential to swell their ranks.

The bulk of Arsenal's young side tonight, plus goalkeeper Manuel Almunia, knocked Kevin Keegan's City out of the Carling Cup with a 2-1 win in Manchester in October.

The regular Arsenal team beat them 1-0 in the Premiership in September and twice last season. City, in fact, haven't won at Highbury since 1975.

On that occasion, Rodney Marsh, Joe Royle and Asa Hartford scored the goals that produced their 3-2 victory.

But with Arsenal in their current mood, such a repeat is extremely unlikely.

Wenger has convinced his players that they can still overhaul Chelsea, who have a five-point lead at the top of the Premiership.

"Many teams have been in front in January and not won the title," said the Arsenal manager.

"Five points is not a big lead with 17 matches still to play.

"I find it surprising when people say they have won the Premiership with 17 matches still to play.

"It can be difficult psychologically when you lead.

"It's not been easy for Chelsea in their recent games. Things can change very quickly.

"I don't feel any team is untouchable at the moment."

City will be without suspended Danny Mills but former Tottenham and Millwall full-back Ben Thatcher is expected to retain his place followinghis comeback in the 2-1 win against Southampton after a twomonth injury lay-off.

Meanwhile, Jens Lehmann, who has been kept out for the past six matches by Almunia, said today: "I am convinced that I will play again soon.

"While watching matches, I cannot see Almunia is better than me."

Lehmann has found an ally in Jogi Low, the assistant to German national manager Jurgen Klinsmann.

Low believes that Wenger should come clean with Lehmann and explain what is going on.

"If Jens isn't playing in the longer term, Wenger should be honest to him," said Low.

"He should tell him what he really plans to do. Jens deserves that."